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The Avengers VI were a clean-cut surf band from Anaheim, California., whose one and only album, Real Cool Hits, was issued in 1966 as a promo for Good Humor ice cream. The group’s name wasn’t even mentioned on the cover although it was pictured on the kick drum.
The LP, originally issued on the Mark 56 label, was sold from the Good Humor ice cream trucks and has since become a highly-valued collector’s item. What set the Avengers VI apart from many of the other surf groups was their superior musicianship. Guitarist Jim Ferguson was reported to practice eight hours a day while organist Mike DeYoung had formal musical training and a wide knowledge of classical music. The group’s repertoire, which encompassed covers of popular surf instrumentals, mood music, movie themes and some first rate originals, attracted both teens and adults to their appearances in southern California.
The albums opening track, Heartbeat, has a real mean streak to it! Edgy and unfaltering, this howling instrumental is led by a fierce lead guitar melody and demon rhythm section! I like that it’s a little darker than your average surf hit! Check it out above.
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